There are many creative students at Lakes High School, and I got the opportunity to get to know Aaliyah Mikkelson, a junior at Lakes High school.
She plays the guitar and has a distinct sense of style. She is known for wearing pastel pinks and being inspired by J-pop idols and other Japanese fashion. I asked her some questions about what inspires her artistic hobbies and her plans for the future.

Q: Would you consider yourself creative? If so, how?
A: “Yes, I have experimented with many hobbies. I have always enjoyed working with my hands, I took up the violin and tried different medias of art. Yet what I find most enjoyable is acting and I audition at every play I can.”
Though she has never been in a play at this school she has done many others back in Germany and has plans to audition for one next year.
Q: What inspired you to get into your hobbies and sense of style?
A: “Many factors have inspired me throughout the years, but one experience stands out. In 2020 when Covid-19 had started, and the abundance of free time and not much to occupy myself I started exploring distinctive styles and hobbies.”
Along the way Mikkelson developed an interest in J-pop fashion. “I became drawn to the cute outfits and pastel pink tones. It intrigues me.”
Q: Would you ever consider pursuing a creative career?
A: “If money were no object, I would undoubtedly pursue a career in acting. It is a field I truly feel passionate about and one that continues to inspire me daily.”
Q: Was it a hard decision to make? Choosing the military over acting.
A: “The decision to enlist to the military was straight forward for me. My primary motivation is to secure funding for college while simultaneously gaining valuable experience in the field. I’m drawn to the special forces, as I seek to make a significant impact.”
Mikkelson enjoys taking art classes at Lakes high School. One of her art teachers, Debrah Shiver,
Creative students bring unique perspectives and self-expression to the school. Whether through art, writing, music, it empowers students to explore different hobbies and styles and create their own unique identity.